NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The heat didn't stop hot chicken fans from flocking to the Annual Music City Hot Chicken Festival.
Organizers say if the food doesn't entice you, the Fire Truck Parade and live music from local bands might do the trick. The parade started at 10:30 a.m. at the corner of 9th Street and goes down Woodland Street.
After the parade, gates opened and patrons rushed to the tents and food trucks.
For Derrick Pickvet and his friends, the goal was to divide and conquer. Pickvet said, "I came with a group and we each just split up and went to all the different ones, we each got like three trays of each flavor that’s offered, so ya I got Hurts and I’m excited to dig in."
They've made it a yearly tradition. "So we came with a plan, and we’re just going to get after it, it’s going to be a good day," Pickvet said.
This way everyone gets to try different ones. “I love hot chicken, love supporting Nashville, local business owners, and I’m just excited. Beautiful day a little warm, but beautiful weather and excited to eat some hot chicken,” Pickvet said.
Deer Park Water provided free water for this year's festival. There was a variety of businesses on site including Nashville Chicken and Waffles, Hattie B's, Buns on the Run, King of Pops, Prince's Hot Chicken, and a lot more.
The live music was provided by local bands in Nashville. Some of the groups are Love Montage, Keeps, and Quiet Entertainer.
All proceeds from the festival benefitted the Friends of Shelby Park and Bottoms.
